Florida Resident Arrested with 55 Pounds of Marijuana in Iredell County

Iredell County, NC: A Florida resident, Yasmani Varela-Portela, was apprehended by Iredell County deputies in a significant drug bust on Interstate 77. A traffic stop occurred when Varela-Portela’s Ford car, with Florida plates, was pulled over near mile marker 59 due to traffic violations.

The driver of the vehicle has been identified as a Miami man who was traveling from Columbus, Ohio to Miami, Florida.

During the traffic stop, K-9 Brandi detected the presence of illegal drugs in the vehicle, leading to an unexpected turn of events. After an extensive investigation, authorities made a shocking find: 55 pounds of marijuana.

The significant confiscation demonstrates the dedicated work of the local law enforcement agencies in their fight against drug trafficking.

After the drug bust, Varela-Portela faced several felony charges. These charges involve the trafficking of marijuana through possession and transport, as well as the possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, and the maintenance of a vehicle for the sale of a controlled substance.

On top of the felony charges, there is also a misdemeanor charge against him for possessing drug paraphernalia.

During the investigation, it was discovered that Varela-Portela is residing in the United States without legal documentation from Cuba.

As a result of this revelation, Homeland Security has placed a federal detainer on him, further complicating the legal situation he is currently dealing with. Following his apprehension, a secured bond of $150,000 was granted.

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